Predicted Barcelona Line-up To Face Celta Vigo In the Copa Del Rey
Barcelona will clash against Celta Vigo in the second leg of their Copa Del Rey round of 16 fixture at the Camp Nou on Thursday night.
The current holders of the trophy were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg by Celta and manager Ernesto Valverde will be keen on bouncing back with a strong performance at home, to take a step closer to retaining the silverware. They come into the game on the back of an impressive 3-0 win over Levante in the La Liga over the weekend.
Team News
Barcelona will be without the services of defender Samuel Umtiti while striker Paco Alcacer is also a doubt for the game. Sergio Busquets is available for selection after being suspended for the weekend league encounter. January signing Philippe Coutinho is ruled out of action for close three weeks and will not be making his debut.
Here’s how the Catalans might take the field against Celta at home on Thursday:
Manager: Ernesto Valverde
Formation: 4-3-3
Jasper Cillessen (GK)
The La Liga leaders’ No.2 between the sticks, Netherlands shot-stopper Jasper Cillessen should start against Celta.
Nelson Semedo (RB)
The summer signing has been overlooked in the league games of late and will look to make a case for himself with a strong display in the cup tie.
Gerard Pique (CB)
The senior defender in the squad, Pique was rested for the La Liga encounter over the weekend and should be back for the midweek game.
Thomas Vermaelen (CB)
Partnering Pique in the heart of the defence for Barca should be Belgian centre-half Thomas Vermaelen, who is enjoying a bit of a renaissance since Samuel Umtiti’s injury.
Lucas Digne (LB)
The Frenchman should take the spot at left-back for the cup game, ahead of first-team regular Jordi Alba.
Paulinho (CM)
The Brazilian midfielder has been a revelation since his summer move from China, with his knack for scoring goals being a major surprise for many. A definite starter in the middle of the park.
Sergio Busquets (CM)
Having been suspended for the league game over the weekend due to card accumulation, Busquets will walk back into the line-up on Thursday.
Andre Gomes (CM)
The Portuguese midfielder should occupy the third slot in central midfield for the current Copa Del Rey holders.
Lionel Messi (RW)
Given that the game isn’t all sealed, Valverde might look to hand his star attacker a start on Thursday. Messi could start on the right-hand side.
Jose Arnaiz (ST)
The young forward scored the only goal in the first leg last week and deserves to be given another opportunity in the second leg.
Ousmane Dembele (LW)
Fit once again, the French winger should be given a chance to showcase his abilities. Could start on the left flank.
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